Connections Hints: Feb 21, 2026

This page shows spoiler-layered hints for the NYT Connectionspuzzle published on Feb 21, 2026 (2026-02-21). Step through the hints in order and only reveal the full group breakdownwhen you're ready.

Meta: Puzzle #986

Connections #986 · 2026-02-21

Choose one group at a time

Each group has separate category and tile reveals. Open only the amount of help you want; the last reveal shows all available groups.

Group 1

Reveal category

EXPERIENCE

Reveal one tile

BACKGROUND

Reveal all four tiles

EXPERIENCE

  • BACKGROUND
  • HISTORY
  • LIFE
  • PAST

Group 2

Reveal category

ATTENDANCE STATUS

Reveal one tile

ABSENT

Reveal all four tiles

ATTENDANCE STATUS

  • ABSENT
  • EXCUSED
  • LATE
  • PRESENT

Group 3

Reveal category

COMMENTARY ABOUT YOUR CONNECTIONS RESULTS

Reveal one tile

GREAT

Reveal all four tiles

COMMENTARY ABOUT YOUR CONNECTIONS RESULTS

  • GREAT
  • PERFECT
  • PHEW
  • SOLID

Group 4

Reveal category

CAR BRANDS PLUS TWO LETTERS

Reveal one tile

AUDITS

Reveal all four tiles

CAR BRANDS PLUS TWO LETTERS

  • AUDITS
  • DODGERS
  • INFINITIVE
  • MINION
Reveal full answer

EXPERIENCE

  • BACKGROUND
  • HISTORY
  • LIFE
  • PAST

ATTENDANCE STATUS

  • ABSENT
  • EXCUSED
  • LATE
  • PRESENT

COMMENTARY ABOUT YOUR CONNECTIONS RESULTS

  • GREAT
  • PERFECT
  • PHEW
  • SOLID

CAR BRANDS PLUS TWO LETTERS

  • AUDITS
  • DODGERS
  • INFINITIVE
  • MINION

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